©Hiking Gr10 Pic Du Midi Dossau Aadt64 Gaillard Munsch|Aadt64 / P.Gaillard - C.Munsch

The Pic du Midi d'Ossau More than a mountain

Just an hour and a half from Pau, in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park, this emblem of the Béarn region, with its teeth jutting into the horizon, is the sacred mountain of the people of Pau! This vestige of an ancient volcano dominates the landscape with its characteristic shape, rising in splendid isolation above the Ossau valley. Its slopes, with their nourishing mountain pastures, are home to flocks of ewes that produce a cheese with an inimitable taste, and in winter it welcomes ski enthusiasts. Well-known to hikers, the Tour de l’Ossau is a demanding hike, but the scenery is sumptuous. An immense playground for nature lovers, just a stone’s throw from Pau and the gateway to Spain.

Getting there

Full nature

It’s easy to get to the mountains from Pau: whether you’re skiing in winter or hiking in summer, the Pic d’Ossau is a gateway to the great outdoors. You’ll discover rare and typical flora and fauna, and come across sheep or Merens horses while hiking in the estives, before winter spreads its white cloak and makes it inaccessible to the uninitiated.

It was with the arrival of Pyreneanism in the 19th century and the development of mountain tourism that the Ossau valley and its proud Pic emerged from their isolation. Passes, peaks and scenic beauty were a sporting challenge worthy of the first explorers. With its unspoilt natural beauty, the Pic d’Ossau has been part of the Pyrenees National Park since 1967.

The two mountain resorts of Gourette and Artouste, created in the 20th century, welcome ski enthusiasts every winter, and hikers and nature lovers in summer, in unspoilt natural surroundings.

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Jean-Pierre ?

The Béarnais affectionately call him Jean Pierre! The big peak is Jean, and Pierre is the little one, as was customary in many Béarn families. This name could also be derived from Géant de Pierre, another name given to the famous mountain, which is not short of original names: Les Jumelles, Les trois sœurs(Las trés Serous in Béarnais), la Molaire fendue or la dent de l’Ours.

The legend

On the mountain, two shepherds, twin brothers Jean the jolly one and Pierre the quiet one, protected the valley. Lured by witches into the underworld, they left the door open to the barbarian invasion. But when they suddenly sprang from the volcano, they defeated their enemies with their fiery swords.

Hiking and climbing

For sports enthusiasts and seasoned hikers, the Tour de l’Ossau is a must: Lac de Bious-Artigues, Col d’Ayous, Lac de Peyreget, Col de l’Iou, Col de Soum de Pombie, Col de Suzon and back to the starting point. With over 15 km and 1200 m of ascent, you’ll discover the Pyrenean mountains in all their glory.

The Pic du Midi d’Ossau offers a host of other hikes for all levels of hiker. The GR10 crosses the mountain, and there are numerous footpaths leading to the summit.

From the refuge de Pombie, you can reach the summit in a day of walking and climbing, but this is an expedition reserved for experienced hikers, requiring preparation and a good knowledge of the mountain. Ideally, it’s best to be accompanied by a professional to enjoy the 360° view from the summit.

Climbing friends, the Pic du Midi d’Ossau also has many surprises in store for you, and you’ll never tire of exploring its routes. Good preparation, knowledge of the mountains and professional guidance are essential for safe climbing.

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Mountain

A paradise for outdoor activities, it’s also a place of freedom and life. Climbing, paragliding, hiking, whitewater… It’s up to you to choose the activity that’s right for you!

Nature

The Pyrenees National Park complies with nature protection regulations. Respect them! Keep your garbage with you, don’t pick flowers and stay on the paths to avoid disturbing animals in their natural habitats.

Hiking

Bring water, protection from the sun and the cold, and of course, good hiking boots. And if you come across a Patou, keep a safe distance: he’s guarding the herd and may consider you a danger. Stay safe.

Weather

In the mountains, the weather changes quickly and conditions can make roads and routes dangerous. Always check the weather forecast before you set off, and observe all safety precautions and advice.

High-altitude resorts in the Ossau valley

Summer and winter alike, the ski resorts of Artouste and Gourette welcome nature lovers.

Artouste offers an exceptional setting just 45 minutes from Laruns. In summer, it offers hiking, trail running, mountain karting, mountain biking and a nautical base, not to mention the Artouste train, a must-do in season.
In winter, winter sports enthusiasts love to ski or snowboard its 17 slopes amid snow-covered fir trees.
Gourette, a mountain bike and discovery resort, the Bézou plateau is ideal for family outings. In winter, it’s all about snow, snowshoes and freestyle skiing at 2450 m.

The Ossau griffon vulture reserve Pyrenees National Park

Protected endemic species thrive in the Pyrenees National Park, including isards, marmot colonies, capercaillie, eagles, ermines and the Pyrenean frog.

The Ossau nature reserve is home to France’s largest colony of griffon vultures, one of France’s largest birds of prey (2.80 m wingspan).

Keep your eyes peeled on your walks: they’re here, and it’s up to you to discover them!